Egg packaging

ABSTRACT

An egg packaging includes a body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, where the cavity has a base and an open end. The cavity defines a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use. The packaging includes one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in the cavity relative to the longitudinal axis and/or one or more longitudinally resilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg in the cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a packaging, in particular but notexclusively to a packaging for eggs.

BACKGROUND

Egg packaging, for example an egg box, can be used to support or carryeggs. For example, egg boxes are typically used to carry eggs to andfrom a retail outlet. Known egg boxes are often of a paper constructionand comprise a plurality of wells, in each of which an egg can becarried.

As will be understood, eggs are particularly susceptible to breakages ifimpacted by a force. This is a particular concern when in transit. Knownplastic egg boxes provide little protection against breakages. Knownpaper egg boxes provide limited protection against breakages. Further,if an egg does break, the contents of the egg can seep into the paperpackaging of the egg box, damaging the egg box such that it can nolonger be used. Where paper egg boxes are stacked, such a breakage canalso result in the contents of a broken egg seeping into the paperpackaging of adjacent egg boxes, thereby resulting in multiple egg boxesbeing damaged by a single egg breakage.

It will be appreciated that such egg breakages and subsequent damage toegg boxes is costly, for example in terms of lost sales relating to thedamaged articles and also in terms of the clean-up required.

It is an aim of the present disclosure to overcome or substantiallyreduce the problems associated with known packaging.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect an egg packaging is provided comprising a body, thebody defining a cavity for receiving an egg, the cavity comprising abase and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axisextending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein thelongitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and whereinthe packaging comprises one or more laterally resilient portionsarranged to provide support against lateral movement of an egg in saidcavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

Egg packaging, for example an egg box, can be used to support or carryeggs. When egg packaging containing eggs is moved or transported, forexample to or from a retail outlet, such movement can result in an eggcontained in the packaging rattling in the packaging. Such rattling canresult in the eggs being subjected to side-on forces as the egg rattlesand hits against the packaging. Similarly, if an egg packaging isdropped, the eggs inside the packaging may be impacted by side-onforces. In other words, forces side-on to the egg, that is forceslateral to a longitudinal axis of the egg. When such side-on forces aresufficiently large, impact of these side-on forces on the egg can resultin breakage of the egg.

As described above, egg packaging disclosed herein comprises a cavityfor receiving an egg and one or more laterally resilient portions whichare arranged to provide support against lateral movement of the egg inthe cavity, relative to the longitudinal axis of the cavity.Advantageously, as an egg rattles in the packaging and hits against thepackaging the kinetic energy of the egg can be absorbed, at leastpartially, by the or each laterally resilient portion, thereby reducingthe likelihood of damage or breakage of the egg. Consequently, the costand clean-up associated with egg breakages is reduced.

In some embodiments, the or each resilient portion is configured to abuta surface of an egg occupying said cavity. In such embodiments, rattlingof the egg in said cavity is minimised as the or each resilient portionsupports the egg against movement and also absorbs lateral forces whichwould otherwise impact the egg.

The shape of an egg is such that it is relatively strong when subjectedto end-on impacts, that is substantially longitudinal impacts relativeto the longitudinal axis of the egg, and relatively weak when subjectedto side-in impacts. Accordingly, providing an egg packaging havinglaterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateralmovement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis ofthe cavity has the advantage of protecting eggs from side-on impacts,hence reducing the risk of damage or breakage of the egg.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion is arrangedto flex, thereby providing support against lateral movement of an egg insaid cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

In this way, side-on forces impacting the egg are absorbed by the oreach laterally resilient portion, thereby reducing the likelihood ofdamage of breakage of the egg.

Providing one or more laterally resilient portions that are configuredto flex also has the advantage that a greater range of egg sizes can besecurely carried by the packaging.

Where relatively small eggs are carried by the packaging, the laterallyresilient portions act to absorb side-on forces experienced by the eggand also to support the egg in the cavity, thereby preventing orsubstantially reducing rattling of the egg in the cavity. Whererelatively large eggs are carried by the packaging, the laterallyresilient portions flex or move to accommodate the egg in the cavity,whilst also absorbing side-on forces impacting the egg and supportingthe egg. Accordingly, a smaller range of egg box sizes is required tocarry a large range of egg sizes.

In some embodiments, the packaging comprises a plurality of laterallyresilient portions.

For example, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 laterally resilient portions may beprovided. Alternatively, any suitable number of laterally resilientportions can be used.

In some embodiments, the plurality of laterally resilient portions aresubstantially equally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis.

In this way, the side-on forces can be absorbed, at least partially,from a plurality of directions, thereby providing additional protectionto an egg carried in the cavity. For example, the plurality of laterallyresilient portions are substantially equally spaced angularly withrespect to the longitudinal axis. In this way side-on forces can beabsorbed, at least partially, from a plurality of angular directions.For example, the packaging comprises four laterally resilient portionsequally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the plurality of laterally resilient portions arearranged in one or more pairs of diametrically opposed laterallyresilient portions.

In some embodiments, the body defines a boundary in relation to saidcavity, coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and wherein the or eachlaterally resilient portion projects towards said longitudinal axisrelative to the boundary.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion extendstowards said longitudinal axis to abut an egg occupying in said cavity.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises acurved profile in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises acurved profile in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis arrangedsuch that an apex of the curved profile is provided nearmost thelongitudinal axis of said cavity.

In this way, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises a “bowed”profile to provide a spring-like functionality. A rounded shape isparticularly beneficial in terms of optimising the resilient action ofthe laterally resilient portion, thereby facilitating the supportingfunction of the laterally resilient portions.

It will be appreciated that other suitable profiles can also be used.For example, the laterally resilient portion may comprise a flatprofile.

In some embodiments, the boundary is a circular boundary. In someembodiments, the boundary comprises a circular cross section. In someembodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion is bound by an arcof the circular boundary or cross section. For example, the or eachresilient profile comprises a curved profile which is bound by an arc ofthe circular boundary or cross section.

For example, the curved profile projects from or intersects the arc ofthe circular boundary or cross section. In some embodiments, the curvedprofile of the laterally resilient portion extends from and is bound byan arc of the circular boundary or cross section. In some embodiments,the angle subtended by the arc is less than 90°, for example in therange of 20° to 85°, for example in the range of 30° to 70°, for examplein the range of 45° to 50°, e.g. approximately 50°.

In some embodiments, the curved profile of the or each laterallyresilient portion is shaped as an inversion of the arc about its chord.

In other words, the laterally resilient portion is shaped as a mirrorimage of the arc reflected about its chord. It will be understood thatthe curved profile of the or each laterally resilient portion maycomprise any suitable radius of curvature such that it provides supportagainst lateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to thelongitudinal axis. For example, the or each laterally resilient portionmay comprise a radius of curvature which is larger or smaller than aradius of curvature of the boundary.

In some embodiments the or each laterally resilient portion extendssubstantially along the chord of the arc along which the laterallyresilient portion is provided. In other words the laterally resilientportion comprises a flat profile.

In some embodiments the or each laterally resilient portion is arrangedto define an arcuate profile extending in a direction away from the baseof the cavity, wherein an apex of the arcuate profile is locatedfurthermost from the longitudinal axis. Said arcuate profile can bethought of as a concave profile as viewed from the interior of thecavity.

In this way, the or each laterally resilient portion is shaped tocompliment the profile of an egg supported by the cavity.

In some embodiments, at least one of said laterally resilient portionsextends no further than the apex of the arcuate profile. Thisfacilitates stacking of the boxes.

In some embodiments, at least one of said laterally resilient portionextends beyond the apex of the arcuate profile to project towards thelongitudinal axis.

In other words, at least one laterally resilient portion extends in adirection away from the base, initially extending away from thelongitudinal axis, following its arcuate profile. Said at least onelaterally resilient portion extends following its arcuate profile beyondthe apex of the arcuate profile, such that the at least one laterallyresilient portion projects or extends back towards the longitudinalaxis. In this way, when an egg is positioned in the cavity, additionalsupport is provided to the egg. This supporting function provided by thearcuate laterally resilient portion, facilitates retention of the egg inthe cavity and reduces the extent to which the egg is free to rattle inthe packaging.

For example, the at least one laterally resilient portion extends toproject into the cavity, e.g. over the base.

Advantageously, in the case where the packaging is made from a plasticsmaterial, packaging comprising one or more laterally resilient portionscomprising such an arcuate profile can be produced without requiring anyspecial tooling. For example, where at least one of the laterallyresilient portions comprises an arcuate profile and is configured toproject beyond the apex of the arcuate profile towards the longitudinalaxis of the cavity, production of this undercut can be produced withoutthe need for special tooling. The laterally resilient portion can simplyflex out of the way when the tool is extracted.

In some embodiments two or more laterally resilient portions extendbeyond the apex of the arcuate profile, thereby enhancing thissupporting function. For example, the two or more laterally resilientportions which extend beyond their apex are diametrically opposed.

For example, in some embodiments, the packaging comprises a plurality ofcavities configured in a square or rectangular arrangement. In sucharrangements, a laterally resilient portion may be provided at aposition adjacent each corner of the square or rectangular arrangement.Optionally, each of said laterally resilient portions positionedadjacent each corner extends beyond its apex. This provides additionalprotection against knocks received by the corners of the container.

In some embodiments, the packaging also comprises a lid for closing overthe base. In some embodiments, the body comprises at least one stanchionextending from the body at a position between adjacent cavities andprojecting towards the lid when the lid is in a closed position. Such astanchion may be configured to abut the lid when the lid is in a closedposition, thereby providing additional protection to eggs carried in thecontainer.

In some embodiments, a laterally resilient portion adjacent saidstanchion extends beyond its apex. In other words, said laterallyresilient portion extends along a height, or length, of the stanchion.

In some embodiments, the body comprises a side wall extending betweenthe base and the open end of the cavity.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion is providedby a respective portion of the side wall.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion is integralwith the side wall.

Consequently, egg packaging which is relatively simple to manufacture isprovided. No additional separate components are required to achieve thedampening function of the laterally resilient portion.

In some embodiments, the side wall is coaxial with the longitudinalaxis. In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portionprojects towards said longitudinal axis relative to said side wall.

In some embodiments, the side wall comprises an annular cross section.In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises aportion of the cavity side wall which is deformed away from the annularcross section in a direction towards the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the side wall comprises a circular profile, e.g. acircular cross section, coaxial with the longitudinal axis. In someembodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion is bound by an arcof the circular side wall. For example, the or each laterally resilientportion comprises a curved profile which is bound by an arc of thecircular side wall.

In some embodiments, the curved profile of the laterally resilientportion extends from and is bound by an arc of the circular side wall.In some embodiments, the angle subtended by the arc is less than 90°,for example in the range of 20° to 85°, for example in the range of 30°to 70°, for example in the range of 45° to 50°, e.g. approximately 50°.In some embodiments, the angle subtended by the arc varies along aheight of the side wall, wherein the height of the side wall extendsbetween the base and the open end of the cavity.

In some embodiments, the arc length of the side wall between adjacentlaterally resilient portions at the open end of the cavity is 30 mm orless, for example in the range of 10 mm-20 mm, for example less than 10mm, for example less than 5 mm, e.g. 2-3 mm. In some embodiments, thearc length between adjacent laterally resilient portions varies alongthe height of the side wall. For example, the arc length betweenadjacent laterally resilient portions proximal the base of the cavitymay be less than at the open end of the cavity, for example in the rangeof 0-20 mm, for example 0-10 mm.

In some embodiments, the cavity is substantially ovoid in shape. In suchembodiments, it will be appreciated that the arc length of the side wallbetween adjacent laterally resilient portions proximal the base of thecavity can be much less, for example in the range of 0-20 mm, forexample 0-10 mm.

In some embodiments, the curved profile of the or each laterallyresilient portion is shaped as an inversion of the arc about its chord.

In other words, the curved profile of the or each laterally resilientportion is shaped as a mirror image of the arc reflected about itschord.

It will be understood that the curved profile of the or each laterallyresilient portion may comprise any suitable radius of curvature suchthat it provides support against lateral movement of an egg in saidcavity relative to the longitudinal axis. For example, the or eachlaterally resilient portion may comprise a radius of curvature which islarger or smaller than a radius of curvature of the side wall.Alternatively, the or each laterally resilient portion may comprise aflat profile.

In some embodiments, the body comprises a slit or opening arranged tofacilitate flexing of the or each laterally resilient portion.

By providing a slit or opening in the body, flexing of the or eachlaterally resilient portion provided by said side wall is facilitated.This is particularly advantageous where the or each laterally resilientportion is integrally formed with the side wall of the cavity. In someembodiments the slit or opening defines at least a part of the or eachlaterally resilient portion.

In some embodiments, the slit or opening is provided adjacent the openend of the cavity and/or along at least a portion of a length of theside wall extending between the base and the open end of the cavity.

Such slits or openings facilitate flexing of the or each laterallyresilient portion when subjected to a force from an egg hitting againstthe laterally resilient portion. In some embodiments, a slit or openingis provided proximal the cavity base.

Optionally, said slit or opening is provided proximal the cavityopening. In some embodiments, said slit or opening is provided closer tothe cavity opening than the cavity base. In this way, should an eggoccupying said cavity break, the contents of the egg is less likely tospill through the slit or opening.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises afinger extending from proximal the base of the cavity. In someembodiments, the finger is defined by a continuous slit provided in theside wall of the cavity. For example, the slit is arranged to extendalong a first length in a direction towards the open end of the cavity,across a portion of the side wall adjacent the cavity opening, and alonga second length of the side wall in a direction towards the base of thecavity.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises aconvex portion projecting towards the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises aconvex portion or dome-shaped portion arranged such that an apex of thedome or convex portion is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis of thecavity. For example, the convex or dome shaped portion may be providedproximal the open mouth of the cavity.

The curvature of the convex or dome shaped portion enables this portionto deflect away from the longitudinal axis. Accordingly, when an egg isintroduced into the cavity, this portion deflects away from thelongitudinal axis to accommodate the egg. The convex or domed portion isresilient such that, when the egg is removed from the cavity, the convexportion springs back to its original shape. In this way, absorption oflateral forces impacting on the egg is facilitated. Advantageously, theconvex or dome shaped portion is configured to deflect without requiringa slit or opening in the body of the egg packaging.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises aresilient finger projecting in a direction away from the base of thecavity. For example, in some embodiments, the or each laterallyresilient portion comprises a resilient finger extending from the baseof the cavity.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion comprises aseries of resilient sub-portions.

In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilient portion isconfigured to abut a surface of an egg occupying said cavity. In thisway, rattling of the egg in said cavity is minimised as the or eachresilient portion supports the egg against movement and also absorbslateral forces which would otherwise impact the egg.

In some embodiments, the body comprises one or more longitudinallyresilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinalmovement of an egg in said cavity relative to said longitudinal axis.

In this way, an egg occupying the cavity of the body is protected andsupported against end-on impacts relative to said longitudinal axis,hence reducing the risk of damage or breakage of the egg. In otherwords, the or each longitudinally resilient portion acts to dampenend-on forces impacted on an egg occupying the cavity.

As described above, when transporting or moving eggs contained in eggpackaging, e.g. an egg box, movement in transit can result in the eggsrattling in the packaging. This can result in the eggs being subjectedto end-on impacts. Similarly, if an egg packaging is dropped, end-onforces may impact on eggs inside the packaging.

When such end-on forces are sufficiently large, this can result inbreakage of the egg. By providing one or more longitudinally resilientportions, at least a portion of the kinetic energy of the egg as it hitsagainst the packaging is absorbed, reducing the likelihood of damage orbreakage of the egg. Consequently, the cost and clean-up associated withegg breakages is reduced.

In a second aspect an egg packaging is provided comprising a body, thebody defining a cavity for receiving an egg, the cavity comprising abase and an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axisextending in a direction between the base and the open end, wherein thelongitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and whereinthe packaging comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portionsarranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg insaid cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portion isconfigured to flex to provide support against longitudinal movement ofan egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

This has an advantage that a greater range of egg sizes can be securelycarried by the packaging. Where relatively small eggs are carried by thepackaging, the longitudinally resilient portions act to absorb end-onforces experienced by the egg and also to support the egg in the cavity,thereby preventing or substantially reducing rattling of the egg in thecavity. Where relatively large eggs are carried by the packaging, thelongitudinally resilient portions flex or move to accommodate the egg inthe cavity, whilst also absorbing end-on forces impacting the egg andsupporting the egg. Accordingly, a smaller range of egg box sizes isrequired to carry a large range of egg sizes.

In some embodiments, at least one of the or each longitudinallyresilient portion is provided by the base of said cavity and projectstowards said cavity.

In this way, end-on forces impacting on the egg are absorbed by thebase, reducing the likelihood of damage or breakage of the egg.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portion isintegral with said base.

Consequently, egg packaging which is relatively simple to manufacture isprovided. No additional separate components are required to achieve thedampening function of the longitudinally resilient portion.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portion issubstantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome is nearmost thecavity.

In this way, the longitudinally resilient portion projects towards anegg occupying said cavity, for example, said longitudinally resilientportion abuts said egg.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises a central depression at the apex of the dome-shape, configuredto receive a portion of an egg.

In this way, an egg can be properly located in position in the cavity ofthe packaging. For example, the egg can be positioned such that the sidesurface of the egg is optimally aligned with the laterally resilientportions.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex ofthe dome.

This arrangement facilitates flexing of the base and thereforefacilitates absorption of end-on forces impacting an egg occupying saidcavity, for example due to the egg rattling in the packaging andimpacting the base. In this way, the likelihood of damage to or breakageof the egg is reduced. The arrangement of one of more concentricchannels facilitates the resilient spring action of the longitudinallyresilient portion.

In some embodiments, a plurality of channels are provided, each of whichbeing concentric to the apex of the dome.

In this way, increased overall flex in the longitudinally resilientportion is provided.

In some embodiments, the or each substantially dome-shapedlongitudinally resilient portion comprises a circular perimeter defininga ring arranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging can rest. Forexample, a circular edge is defined where the base meets the side wallof the cavity. In this way, a rigid ring is provided on which thepackaging can rest. This circular base is inherently strong and sofurther protects an egg in the cavity against impacts.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises a plurality of resilient fingers projecting towards the cavityrelative to said base and configured to abut a portion of an egg locatedin said cavity to provide support against longitudinal movement of anegg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis. For example, theplurality of resilient fingers extend from the base and are configuredto abut a portion of an egg located in said cavity.

In some embodiments, the egg packaging comprises the body having saidcavity, and a lid coupled to the body, wherein at least one of the oreach longitudinally resilient portions is provided by the lid.

In this way, an egg occupying the cavity of the packaging is protectedfrom end-on impacts in the direction of the lid of the packaging, hencereducing the risk of damage to or breakage of the egg. In other words,the lid acts to dampen end-on forces impacting on an egg in the cavity.

As described above, when transporting eggs, movement in transit canresult in the eggs rattling in the egg packaging. This can result inend-on forces impacting the eggs. Similarly, if an egg packaging isdropped, end-on forces may impact eggs inside the packaging. When suchforces are sufficiently large, this can result in breakage of the egg.Accordingly, by providing a resilient and dampening lid, at least someof the kinetic energy of the egg as it hits against the lid of thepackaging is absorbed, reducing the likelihood of damage to or breakageof the egg. Consequently, the cost and clean-up associated with eggbreakages is reduced.

In some embodiments, the lid and base of the container are coupled via ahinge, for example a live hinge which acts to bias the lid towards anopen position.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portion isintegral with said lid.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises one or more resilient fingers extending from the lid towardsthe cavity, when the lid is closed.

For example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more resilient fingers may be provided. Insuch embodiments, an exterior surface of the lid is unaltered by theresilient fingers extending from an interior surface of the lid.Accordingly a flat uninterrupted exterior lid surface is provided. Thisis advantageous for the application of labelling to the container, forexample, by in-mould labelling.

In some embodiments, each longitudinally resilient portion comprisesfour resilient fingers arranged as two pairs of diametrically opposedfingers. In some embodiments, the four resilient fingers are equallyspaced with respect to the longitudinal axis, when the lid is in theclosed position. In other words, each resilient finger in the set offour is equidistant from the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, each resilient finger comprises a curved profilesuch that the resilient finger extends away from the longitudinal axiswhen the lid is closed.

For example, in some embodiments the fingers are curved such thatdiametrically opposed pairs of resilient fingers extend away from eachother. In this way, the resilient fingers are arranged to abut an egg ina corresponding cavity when the lid is closed. Alternatively, if acomparatively small egg is located in the cavity, the resilient fingersmay not abut the surface of the egg.

The curved profile of each resilient finger facilitates flexing of theresilient finger when a longitudinal force relative to the longitudinalaxis of the respective cavity is applied.

In some embodiments, the resilient fingers are configured to flex awayfrom the longitudinal axis. In other words, the resilient fingers areconfigured to flex such that each resilient finger of a diametricallyopposed pair is configured to flex away from the other resilient fingerof the pair.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portion issubstantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome is nearmost thecavity.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises a central depression at the apex of the dome-shape, configuredto receive a portion of an egg in said cavity.

In some embodiments, the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex ofthe dome.

In some embodiments, a plurality of channels are provided, each of whichbeing concentric to the apex of the dome.

In some embodiments, a first longitudinally resilient portion isprovided by the base and a second longitudinally resilient portion isprovided by the lid.

In some embodiments, a single longitudinally resilient portion isprovided by the base and/or the lid. For example, a singlelongitudinally resilient portion is provided by the base and/or the lidper cavity of the packaging.

In some embodiments, the egg packaging comprises the body having acavity, and a lid coupled to the body.

In some embodiments, the body comprises a plurality of cavities forreceiving an egg, each cavity comprising a base and an open end, andeach cavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a directionbetween the base and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axes areintended to be vertical when in use.

In some embodiments, the base comprises a ring projecting from the body,arranged to form a foot upon which the egg packaging can rest.

In some embodiments, the base comprises a circular perimeter and thering projects from the circular perimeter of the base.

In some embodiments, the egg packaging is formed of a plastics material.

Use of a plastics material is easier to wipe clean compared totraditional paper egg boxes. Therefore, in the case where an eggbreakage occurs, an egg packaging of plastics construction can be wipedclean and reused. In addition, the broken egg is more likely to remainwithin the packing and not seep out of the packaging, which can resultin damage to neighbouring packaging, as can be the case withconventional paper egg boxes.

The use of plastics material, for example instead of a paper basedmaterial, is particularly advantageous in enabling the thickness of thematerial used to be reduced.

This has the benefit of enabling closer stacking of the egg packaging,consequently, a greater number of egg boxes can be transported in agiven volume of space, for example in a vehicle.

In some embodiments, the container is formed of polypropylene.

In some embodiments, the egg packaging can be formed from foamedplastics, paper, card, papier-mâché, or any other suitable material.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the or each longitudinallyresilient portion comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at leasta portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.

By reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the or eachlongitudinally resilient portion, flexing of the or each longitudinallyresilient portion is facilitated. In some embodiments, the or eachlongitudinally resilient portion has a reduced thickness as compared toat least a portion of the remainder of the packaging, e.g. the side wallof the cavity. For example, the thickness of the of the narrowestportion of the or each longitudinally resilient portion is in the rangeof 0.2 mm to 1 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, forexample in the range of 0. mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

In some embodiments, the thickness of the longitudinally resilientportion gradually reduces, such that the region of most reducedthickness is proximal the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the longitudinally resilientportion and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging,e.g. the side wall, have the same thickness.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the or each laterallyresilient portion comprises a reduced thickness as compared to at leasta portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.

By reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the or each laterallyresilient portion, flexing of the or each laterally resilient portion isfacilitated. In some embodiments, the or each laterally resilientportion has a reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of theremainder of the packaging, e.g. the side wall of the cavity. Forexample, the thickness of the or each laterally resilient portion is inthe range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in therange of 0.25 mm to 0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 mm to 0.3mm.

In a third aspect an egg packaging comprising a body is provided, thebody defining a cavity supporting an egg, the cavity comprising a baseand an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extendingin a direction between the base and the open end, wherein thelongitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and whereinthe packaging comprises one or more laterally resilient portionsarranged to provide support against lateral movement of the egg in saidcavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

In a fourth aspect an egg packaging comprising a body is provided, thebody defining a cavity supporting an egg, the cavity comprising a baseand an open end, and the cavity defining a longitudinal axis extendingin a direction between the base and the open end, wherein thelongitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when in use, and whereinthe packaging comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portionsarranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of the egg insaid cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.

It will be appreciated that the optional features described may apply toany aspect disclosed herein. All combinations contemplated are notrecited explicitly for the sake of brevity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Embodiments disclosed herein will now be described with reference to theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a packaging for eggs, asdisclosed herein;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the body of the egg packagingshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative perspective view of the body of theegg packaging of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the body of theegg packaging of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of a series of cavities of the eggpackaging of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the series of cavitiesillustrated in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the eggpackaging of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 illustrates a second embodiment of the egg packaging disclosedherein, comprising an alternative longitudinally resilient portionprovided in a base of each of the cavities of the packaging;

FIG. 9 illustrates a third embodiment of the egg packaging disclosedherein, comprising an alternative longitudinally resilient portionprovided in a base of each of the cavities of the packaging;

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a lid of a fourth embodimentof an egg packaging disclosed herein, the lid comprising additionallongitudinally resilient portions;

FIG. 11 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the fourthembodiment of the egg packaging, comprising the lid of FIG. 10 and thebody portion of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the egg packaging disclosedherein, comprising a lid having alternative additional longitudinallyresilient portions and the body portion illustrated in FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the eggpackaging disclosed herein;

FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of theegg packaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilientportions;

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a eighth embodiment of the eggpackaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilientportions;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the eggpackaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilientportions;

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the eggpackaging disclosed herein, having alternative laterally resilientportions; and

FIG. 18 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view of the embodimentof FIG. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, an egg packaging, for example an egg box, isgenerally indicated at reference numeral 2. The egg packaging 2comprises a lid 3 coupled to a body 4 by a hinge 5. For example, thehinge 5 may be a live hinge. In some embodiments, the hinge 5 isconfigured such that the lid 3 and body 4 can lie substantially flatwhen the lid is open, thereby facilitating stacking of the egg boxes 2.

The body 4 defines a plurality of cavities 6, each of which beingarranged to receive an egg. In the illustrated embodiments, the body 4defines six cavities 6 provided in a rectangular arrangement. It will beunderstood that any number of cavities 6 can be provided in the body 4,for example 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, 24 or more cavities may beprovided.

The lid 3 is configured to be moved between an open position (as shownin FIG. 1) in which eggs occupying the cavities 6 can be accessed, and aclosed position, in which the lid 3 extends across the body 4 of thepackaging 2 to cover the eggs, thereby protecting the eggs.

As can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, each cavity 6 comprises a base 8, anopen end 10 and a longitudinal axis A extending in a direction betweenthe base 8 and the open end 10. When the egg packaging 2 is in use, inother words when eggs are carried in one or more of the plurality ofcavities 6, the longitudinal axis A is intended to be substantiallyvertical.

The egg packaging 2 comprises a plurality of laterally resilientportions 12 which are configured to provide support against lateralmovement of an egg occupying a cavity 6, said lateral movement beinglateral relative to the longitudinal axis A. In other words, thelaterally resilient portions 12 provide support against substantiallysideways movement of an egg in said cavity 6.

In the illustrated embodiments each cavity 6 is provided with fourlaterally resilient portions 12. With respect to a given cavity 6, eachof the laterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex in order toprovide support against lateral movement of an egg in the cavity 6,relative to the longitudinal axis A. Each of the laterally resilientportions 12 is configured to flex such that, when a lateral force isapplied to the portion 12, for example by an egg in the cavity 6, thelaterally resilient portion 12 is moved in a direction away from thecavity 6, i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, thelateral force is absorbed by the laterally resilient portion 12.

When the laterally resilient portion 12 is no longer subjected to alateral force, the portion 12 springs back towards the cavity 6, i.e.towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

As can be clearly seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the laterally resilientportions 12 of a given cavity 6 are substantially equally spaced aroundthe cavity 6 with respect to the longitudinal axis A. Furthermore, thelaterally resilient portions 12 are arranged in pairs such that thelaterally resilient portions 12 of each pair are diametrically opposed.

In the illustrated embodiments, each cavity 6 of the body 4 includes aside wall 16 extending between the base 8 and the open end 10 of thecavity 6. In other words, each cavity 6 is partially defined by a sidewall 16 extending between the base 8 and the open end 10 of the cavity6.

As is illustrated in FIG. 5, the side wall 16 of each cavity 6 defines aboundary 14 in relation to the cavity 6. Said boundary 14 is co-axialwith the longitudinal axis A. Each of the laterally resilient portions12 of a given cavity 6 is arranged to project towards the longitudinalaxis A relative to the boundary 14. In alternative embodiments, theboundary 14 may be defined by means other than the cavity side wall 16.

With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, each laterally resilientportion 12 includes a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to thelongitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6, for example in a planeperpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. Said curved profile 18 of eachlaterally resilient portion 12 is positioned such that an apex 18 a ofthe curved profile 18 is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis A ofthe respective cavity 6. In other words, the curved profile of thelaterally resilient portion 12 is curved towards the respective cavity 6such that the apex 18 a is provided closer to the longitudinal axis Athan the remainder of the curved profile 18. As can be seen in FIGS. 5and 6 in particular, this arrangement provides a “bowed” profile, suchthat the laterally resilient portions 12 have a spring-likefunctionality.

Again with reference to FIG. 5, for a given cavity 6, the boundary 14defined by the sidewall 16 is a substantially circular boundary 14,coaxial with the longitudinal axis A. The laterally resilient portions12 of the cavity 6 are formed from a portion of the cavity sidewall 16,which is deformed away from the circular boundary 14 in a directiontowards the longitudinal axis A. In other words, the sidewall 16comprises a substantially circular cross section, wherein the laterallyresilient portions 12 are deformed away from this circular cross sectiontowards the longitudinal axis A.

The curved profile 18 of each of the laterally resilient portions 12 isbound by an arc 20 of the circular boundary 14. Further, the curvedprofile 18 of the laterally resilient portions 12 is shaped as aninversion or mirror image of the arc 20 about its chord 22. In theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the angle subtended by the arc20 proximal the open end 10 of the cavity is approximately 50°. However,it will be understood that other suitable angles may be used. Due to theshape of the cavity 6, it will be appreciated that the angle subtendedby the arc proximal the base 8 of the cavity 6 may be different.

The arc length of the side wall 16 between adjacent laterally resilientportions 12 at the open end 10 of the cavity 6 is in the range of 10mm-20 mm. However, it will be understood that other suitable arc lengthsmay be used. Due to the shape of the cavity 6, it will be appreciatedthat the arc length of the side wall 16 between adjacent laterallyresilient portions 12 proximal the base 8 of the cavity 6 can be muchless, for example in the range of 0-20 mm, for example 0-10 mm.

With reference to FIG. 4, the laterally resilient portions 12 of a givencavity 6 are arranged to define an arcuate profile 24 which extends in adirection away from the base 8 of the cavity 6. The arcuate profile 24of each laterally resilient portion 12 is arranged such that an apex 24a of the arcuate profile 24 is located furthermost from the longitudinalaxis A. In other words, the arcuate profile 24 extends such that itsapex 24 a is located further away from the longitudinal axis A than theremainder of the arcuate profile 24. In this way, a cavity 6 which issubstantially ovoid is provided. In other words, the cavity 6 is shapedto approximately correspond to the shape of an egg.

As can be seen in FIG. 1, the lid 3 comprises a cover portion 48 and aside wall 50. The side wall 50 is arranged to extend from the coverportion 48 towards the body 4 of the egg packaging 2, when the lid 3 isin the closed configuration. A portion of the side wall 50 of the lid 3is coupled to the body 4 by a hinge 5.

The cover portion 48 has an inner cover surface 52, which faces towardsthe body 4 when the lid 3 is closed, and an outer cover surface 54,which faces away from the body 4 when the lid 3 is closed.

The packaging 2 of the illustrated embodiments comprises six cavities 6configured in a rectangular arrangement, such that the packaging body 4has four corners 28. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the body 4 includes apair of stanchions 26 extending from the body 4 at a position betweenadjacent cavities 6, for example extending from a central positionbetween groups of four cavities 6. The stanchions 26 are configured toabut the inner cover surface 52 of the lid 3 when the lid 3 is closed.In this way additional strength and support against impacts to the lid 3of the packaging 2 is provided, reducing the likelihood of damage toeggs contained in the packaging 2.

With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the laterally resilient portions 12 whichare provided adjacent the corners 28 of the body 4 are each arranged toextend to a height beyond the apex 24 a of its arcuate profile 24. Inthis way, the laterally resilient portions 12 provided at the bodycorners 28 project towards the longitudinal axis A, in other wordstowards the cavity 6.

Similarly, laterally resilient portions 12 provided adjacent a stanchion26 are arranged to extend to a height along the stanchion 26, such thatthe laterally resilient portion 12 extends beyond the apex 24 a of itsarcuate profile 24. In this way, the laterally resilient portions 12provided adjacent the stanchions 26 project towards the longitudinalaxis A, in other words towards the cavity 6.

Consequently, the laterally resilient portions provided adjacent thecorners 28 and stanchions 26 of the body 4 act to retain eggs containedin the respective cavities 6 by providing a “gripping” action e.g. byprojecting over the widest part of the egg.

The remaining laterally resilient portions 12, i.e. those not adjacent acorner 28 or stanchion 26 of the body 4, are provided such that theportions 12 extend from the base no further than the apex 24 a of itsarcuate profile 24. In other words, the cavity opening 10 in the regionof these laterally resilient portions is provided at a location which ispositioned along the arcuate profile no further than the apex 24 a ofthe arcuate profile 24.

In alternative embodiments, the body 4 may comprise laterally resilientportions 12 arranged such that all of the laterally resilient portions12 extend from the base no further than the apex 24 a of its arcuateprofile 24. Alternatively, other combinations of laterally resilientportions 12 having a variety of heights can be used.

As is shown in FIGS. 1-4, a slit 30 is provided in the body 4, adjacenteach laterally resilient portion 12 and proximal the open end 10 of thecavity 6, in an upper surface 70 of the body 4. By providing a slit 30in the body 4 of the packaging 2, flexing of the laterally resilientportions 12 is facilitated. In some embodiments, a slit 30 is alsoprovided proximal the base of the cavity 6, again to facilitate flexingof the laterally resilient portions 12. This is illustrated in FIG. 13.

The egg packaging 2 is formed from a plastics material, for examplepolypropylene. In alternative embodiments, the egg packaging can beformed from foamed plastics, paper, card, papier-mâché, or any othersuitable material.

The thickness of the plastics material from which the egg packaging isformed is typically in the range of 0.4-1.0 mm, for example 0.4-0.7 mm,for example 0.4-0.5 mm. Accordingly, the side wall 16 of the respectivecavities has a thickness in the range of 0.4-1.0 mm, for example 0.4-0.7mm, for example 0.4-0.5 mm.

The use of plastics material, for example instead of a paper basedmaterial, is particularly advantageous in enabling the thickness of thematerial used to be reduced. This has the benefit of enabling closerstacking of the egg packaging, consequently, a greater number of eggboxes can be transported in a given volume of space, for example in avehicle.

At least a portion of each laterally resilient portion 12 comprises areduced thickness compared to at least a portion of the remainder of theegg packaging. In the illustrated embodiments, each laterally resilientportion 12 comprises a reduced thickness as compared to the side wall 16of the respective cavity 6. By reducing the thickness of the laterallyresilient portion 12, flexing of the laterally resilient portion 12 isfacilitated. For example, the thickness of the or each laterallyresilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example inthe range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the rangeof 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

In some embodiments, the laterally resilient portions 12 and at least aportion of the remainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16,have the same thickness.

In the illustrated embodiments, the base 8 of each cavity 6 is providedwith a longitudinally resilient portion 32 which is arranged to providesupport against longitudinal movement of an egg occupying the cavity 6,relative to said longitudinal axis A. As will be described in moredetail below, the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is configured toflex in order to support an egg against longitudinal movement in thecavity 6. The longitudinally resilient portion 32 is integrally formedwith the base 8 and is arranged to project towards said cavity 6.

The longitudinally resilient portion 32 of the illustrated embodimentsis substantially dome-shaped such that an apex of the dome is nearmostthe cavity 6. As can be seen in FIG. 7, the apex of the dome-shapedportion 32 includes a central depression 36 which is shaped to receivean end portion of an egg 68. The longitudinally resilient portion 32also includes a channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40 (as viewed fromthe interior of the cavity 6), wherein the channel 38 and ridge 40 areconcentric with the apex of the dome-shaped portion 32.

FIG. 7 shows a first embodiment of the longitudinal resilient portion 32comprising a single channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40. FIG. 8 showsa second embodiment of the longitudinally resilient portion 32, whichalso comprises a single channel 38 and corresponding ridge 40. FIG. 8shows a third embodiment of the longitudinally resilient portion 32including two channels 38 and two corresponding ridges 40. Any number ofchannels 58 and/or ridges 60 may be used, e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4.

The longitudinally resilient portion 32 of each cavity 6 is configuredto flex such that, when a longitudinal force is applied to the portion32, for example by an egg 68 in the cavity 6, the longitudinallyresilient portion 32 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6. Inthis way, the longitudinal force is absorbed by the longitudinallyresilient portion 32. The arrangement of the concentric channel(s) 38and corresponding ridge(s) 40 facilitates this flexing.

When the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is no longer subjected to alongitudinal force, the portion 32 springs back towards the cavity 6,i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

It is believed that by increasing the number of channels 38 and ridges40, the overall flex in the longitudinally resilient portion 32 isincreased.

In each of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, the dome-shapedportion 32 includes a circular perimeter defining a ring 42. Thecircular perimeter of the dome-shaped portion 32 is provided where thebase 8 meets the side wall 16 of the cavity 6. This provides a rigidring 42 which is inherently strong and so provides further protectionagainst impacts to an egg 68 in the cavity 6. The ring 42 is alsoarranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging 2 can rest.

At least a portion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 comprisesa reduced thickness as compared to at least a portion of the remainderof the egg packaging 2. In the illustrated embodiments, at least aportion of the longitudinally resilient portion 32 comprises a reducedthickness compared to the side wall 16 of the cavity 6. In theillustrated embodiments, the thickness of the longitudinally resilientportion 32 gradually reduces between its circular perimeter 42 and itsapex, such that the region of most reduced thickness is at the apex.This is shown in FIGS. 7 to 9.

By reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the longitudinallyresilient portion 32, flexing of the longitudinally resilient portion 32is facilitated. For example, the thickness of the narrowest portion ofthe of the longitudinally resilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in therange of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm,for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the longitudinally resilientportion 32 and at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging,e.g. the side wall 16, have the same thickness.

When the egg packaging 2 is in use, an egg 68 is introduced into atleast one of the cavities 6. In the case where the egg is sufficientlylarge, as the egg is introduced into the cavity 6, the surface of theegg 68 comes into contact with the laterally resilient portions 12 ofthe cavity 6. The laterally resilient portions 12 flex away from thecavity 6 as the egg 68 is moved into the cavity 6, thereby accommodatingthe egg 68.

The egg 68 is located in the cavity 6 such that an end of the egg 68rests in the central depression 36 of the dome-shaped longitudinallyresilient portion 32 provided in the base of the cavity 6.

When the egg 68 is in position in the cavity 6, the laterally resilientportions 12 abut the surface of the egg, as can be seen in FIGS. 7 to 9.Alternatively, if the egg is relatively small, it may be that none ofthe laterally resilient portions 12, or only some of the laterallyresilient portions 12, abut the surface of the egg. In this way, the eggpackaging 2 is configured to accommodate eggs of a range of sizes.

Once the egg has been positioned in the cavity of the egg packaging, thelid 3 is closed over the body 4, hence over the egg.

As the egg packaging 2 is carried or otherwise moved or transported, theegg 68 is supported against lateral movement in the cavity 6 by thelaterally resilient portions 12. When the egg packaging 2 is impacted bya lateral force, eggs carried by the egg packaging 2 are supportedagainst lateral movement by the laterally resilient portions 12.

When the egg packaging 2 is subjected to a lateral force, an egg 68 inone of the cavities 6 may be forced against the sides of the cavity 6.In this way, the egg 68 applies a lateral force to the laterallyresilient portions 12 of the cavity 6. As described above, each of thelaterally resilient portions 12 is configured to flex such that, when anegg 68 applies a lateral force to the laterally resilient portion 12,the laterally resilient portion 12 is moved in a direction away from thecavity 6, i.e. away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, thelateral force is absorbed, at least partially, by the laterallyresilient portion 12. When the laterally resilient portion 12 is nolonger subjected to a lateral force, the portion 12 springs back towardsthe cavity 6, i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its originalposition.

Therefore the likelihood of breakage of the egg from side-on impact isreduced, since such forces are absorbed, at least partially, by thelaterally resilient portions 12 by flexing of these portions.

In addition, the egg 68 is supported against longitudinal movement inthe cavity 6 relative to the longitudinal axis A by the longitudinallyresilient portion 32 of the base 8. When the egg packaging 2 issubjected to a longitudinal force, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may beforced against the base 8 of the cavity 6. In this way, the egg 68applies a longitudinal force to the longitudinally resilient portion 32of the cavity 6. As described above, the longitudinally resilientportion 32 is configured to flex such that, when the egg 68 applies alongitudinal force to the portion 32, the longitudinally resilientportion 32 is moved in a direction away from the cavity 6. In this way,the longitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by thelongitudinally resilient portion 32.

When the longitudinally resilient portion 32 is no longer subjected to alongitudinal force, the portion 32 springs back towards the cavity 6,into its original position.

Therefore the likelihood of breakage of the egg from end-on impact isreduced, since such forces are absorbed by the longitudinally resilientportion 32 by flexing of this portion 32.

When an egg 68 is removed from the cavity 6, the laterally resilientportions 12 flex away from the cavity 6 to enable the egg 68 to beremoved. Alternatively, if the egg 68 is relatively small, it may bethat none of the laterally resilient portions 12 abut the surface of theegg and so the egg 68 can simply be removed.

In some embodiments, the lid 28 is provided with a series of additionalor second longitudinally resilient portions 44, such that each cavity 6is provided with a first longitudinally resilient portion 32 in the base8 and a corresponding second longitudinally resilient portion 44provided by the lid 3. Each second longitudinally resilient portion 44is provided integrally with the cover 48 of the lid 3. In the embodimentof FIG. 10, each second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is in theform of a plurality of resilient fingers 46.

The plurality of resilient fingers 46 extend from the inner coversurface 52 of the lid 3. In the illustrated embodiment, each secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44 includes four resilient fingers 46arranged as two pairs of diametrically opposed fingers 46. Each set offour resilient fingers 46 is equally spaced with respect to thelongitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6, when the lid is in theclosed position. In other words, each resilient finger 46 in the set offour is equidistant from the longitudinal axis A.

As can be seen from FIG. 11, the plurality of resilient fingers 46extend from the inner cover surface 52 such that the outer cover surface54 remains flat. In this way, application of labelling to the container,for example by in-mould labelling, is facilitated.

Each resilient finger 46 is curved such that diametrically opposed pairsof resilient fingers 46 extend away from each other. In other words,each resilient finger 46 is curved such that it extends away from thelongitudinal axis A. In this way, the resilient fingers 46 are arrangedto abut an egg 68 in a corresponding cavity 6 when the lid 3 is closed.This is shown in FIG. 11. Alternatively, if a comparatively small egg islocated in the cavity 6, the resilient fingers 46 may not abut thesurface of the egg.

The curved profile of each resilient finger 46 facilitates flexing ofthe resilient finger 46 when a longitudinal force relative to thelongitudinal axis A of the respective cavity 6 is applied. The resilientfingers 46 are configured to flex away from the longitudinal axis A. Inother words, the resilient fingers 46 are configured to flex such thateach resilient finger 46 of a diametrically opposed pair is configuredto flex away from the other resilient finger 46 of the pair.

In use, when the egg packaging is subjected to a longitudinal force, anegg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the lid 3 of the cavity 6.In this way, the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to thelongitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3 corresponding to thecavity 6 in which the egg 68 is located, i.e. to the four resilientfingers 46 corresponding to the cavity 6. As described above, theresilient fingers 46 are configured to flex such that, when the egg 68applies a longitudinal force to the resilient fingers 46, the resilientfingers 46 flex away from the longitudinal axis A. In this way, thelongitudinal force is absorbed, at least partially, by the resilientfingers 46.

When the resilient fingers 46 are no longer subjected to a longitudinalforce, the fingers 46 spring back towards the longitudinal axis A, intothe original position.

Accordingly, by providing a first longitudinally resilient portion 32 inthe base 8 and a second longitudinally resilient portion 44 in the lidfor each cavity 6, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 is supported againstlongitudinal movement both in the direction of the lid 3 and in thedirection of the base 8.

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a longitudinallyresilient portion 44 provided in the lid 3. In this embodiment, thesecond longitudinally resilient portion 44 is integrally provided withthe lid 28. As will be appreciated from FIG. 12, the secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44 is substantially the same as thefirst longitudinally resilient portion 32.

As with the first longitudinally resilient portion 32, the secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44 is substantially dome-shaped suchthat an apex of the dome is provided nearmost the corresponding cavity6. Each of the second longitudinally resilient portions 44 includes acentral depression 56 which is shaped to receive an end portion of anegg 68 positioned in a cavity 6 when the lid 3 is in the closedposition.

The second longitudinally resilient portion 44 shown in FIG. 12 includesa pair of channels 58 and a pair of corresponding ridges 60 (as viewedfrom the interior of the cavity 6), wherein the channels 58 and ridges60 are concentric with the apex of the dome-shape of the secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44. As with the first longitudinallyresilient portion 32, a number of different profiles is possible. Insome embodiments, a single channel 58 and ridge 60 may be provided. Forexample, profiles similar to those shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 can beused. It will be understood that any suitable profile may be used toprovide the second longitudinally resilient portions 44, for example,any number of channels 58 and/or ridges 60 may be used, e.g. 1, 2, 3, or4.

At least a portion of the second longitudinally resilient portion 44comprises a reduced thickness compared to at least a portion of theremainder of the egg packaging. In the illustrated embodiments, secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44 comprises a reduced thickness ascompared to the cover portion 48 of the lid 3. In the illustratedembodiments, the thickness of the second longitudinally resilientportion 44 gradually reduces between the perimeter of the dome-shape andits apex, such that the region of most reduced thickness is at the apex.

By reducing the thickness of at least a portion of the secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44, flexing of the secondlongitudinally resilient portion 44 is facilitated. For example, thethickness of the narrowest portion of the second longitudinallyresilient portion is in the range of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, for example inthe range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.4 mm, for example in the rangeof 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second longitudinallyresilient portion 44 and at least a portion of the remainder of the eggpackaging, e.g. the cover portion 48 of the lid 3, have the samethickness.

As with the first longitudinally resilient portion 32 provided by thebase 8, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3, isconfigured to flex such that, when a longitudinal force is applied tothe portion 44, for example by an egg 68 in the corresponding cavity 6,the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is moved in a directionaway from the cavity 6. In this way, the longitudinal force is absorbedby the second longitudinally resilient portion 44. The arrangement ofthe concentric channel(s) 58 and corresponding ridge(s) 60 facilitatesthis flexing. When the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is nolonger subjected to a longitudinal force, the portion 44 springs backtowards the cavity 6, into its original position.

Accordingly, when the egg packaging 2 is subjected to a longitudinalforce, an egg 68 in the cavity 6 may be forced against the lid 3 of thecavity 6. In this way, the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to thesecond longitudinally resilient portion 44 of the lid 3. As describedabove, the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is configured toflex such that, when the egg 68 applies a longitudinal force to theportion 44, the longitudinally resilient portion 44 is moved in adirection away from the cavity. In this way, the longitudinal force isabsorbed, at least partially, by the second longitudinally resilientportion 44.

When the second longitudinally resilient portion 44 is no longersubjected to a longitudinal force, the portion 44 springs back towardsthe cavity 6, into its original position.

In this way, eggs occupying the cavities 6 of the egg packaging 2 aresupported against longitudinal movement relative to the longitudinalaxis A in the direction of the base 8 of the cavity 6 and in thedirection of the lid 3.

Therefore the likelihood of breakage of the egg 68 from end-on impactsis reduced, since such forces are absorbed, at least partially, by thelongitudinally resilient portions 32, 44 of the base and lid, by flexingof these portions.

Although the invention has been described above with reference to one ormore embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes ormodifications may be made without departing from the scope of theinvention as defined in the appended claims. For example, in alternativeembodiments, it may be that a longitudinally resilient portion isprovided only by the lid, in other words that there is no longitudinallyresilient portion provided by the base.

With regards to the laterally resilient portion, it will be appreciatedthat other suitable profiles can also be used. For example, thelaterally resilient portion 12 may comprise a flat profile 62, asillustrated in FIG. 14, and not a curved profile 18 in a planetransverse to the longitudinal axis A. Flexing of the laterallyresilient portion 12 is facilitated by the slit 30 provided adjacent thecavity opening 10. It will be appreciated that the remaining featuresdescribed in relation to the laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1to 6 also apply to the laterally resilient portion 12 illustrated inFIG. 14.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 15, the laterally resilient portion 12may comprise a curved profile 18 in a plane transverse to thelongitudinal axis A, wherein the curved profile 18 has a pair of apexes18 a. Each apex 18 a is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis A. Itwill be appreciated that the remaining features described in relation tothe laterally resilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1 to 6 also apply to thelaterally resilient portion 12 illustrated in FIG. 15.

Laterally resilient portions 12 as illustrated in FIG. 15 are arrangedto flex away from the cavity 6 in a similar manner to the laterallyresilient portions 12 of FIGS. 1-6. In the case where there are fourlaterally resilient portions 12 per cavity 6, this has the advantagethat an egg in the cavity may be contacted by the laterally resilientportions 12 at up to eight contact points around the side of the eggi.e. at each apex 18 a. Accordingly, any impact load on the side of theegg may be spread across up to eight contact points.

FIG. 16 illustrates a further alternative embodiment in which eachlaterally resilient portion 12 is formed as a resilient finger 64extending from the side wall 16 of the cavity 6 in a direction away fromthe base 8 of the cavity 6. Each resilient finger 64 comprises the samefeatures as the laterally resilient portion 12 described in relation toFIGS. 1-6. In addition, each resilient finger 64 is defined by a slit 66extending along either side of the finger 64 and across the top at alocation adjacent the cavity opening 10. In other words, the slit 66 issubstantially u-shaped to define the finger 64. The slit 66 is formed oftwo parallel slits 66 a extending along the cavity side wall 16, and athird slit 66 b extending between the two parallel slits 66 a at thecavity opening 10. The third slit 66 b being formed in the upper surface70 of the body 4. As can be seen from FIG. 16, each resilient finger 64projects into the cavity 6 beyond the remainder of the cavity side wall16.

Each resilient finger 64 is configured to flex such that, when an eggapplies a lateral force to the resilient finger 64, the finger 64 ismoved in a direction away from the cavity 6, i.e. away from thelongitudinal axis A. In this way, the lateral force is absorbed by theresilient finger 64. When the resilient finger 64 is no longer subjectedto a lateral force, the finger 64 springs back towards the cavity 6,i.e. towards the longitudinal axis A, into its original position.

A further embodiment of the laterally resilient portions is illustratedin FIGS. 17 and 18. In this embodiment, each laterally resilient portion12 is the same as those described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 6. Inparticular, the laterally resilient portions 12 include a curved profile18 in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis. The laterallyresilient portions 12 also include an arcuate profile 24 which extendsaway from the base 8 of the cavity 6 such that a substantially ovoidcavity 6 is provided.

The laterally resilient portions 12 of the embodiment of FIGS. 17 and 18differ from those of FIGS. 1 to 6 in that the arcuate profile 24 of eachlaterally resilient portion 12 does not extend the full height of thecavity 6. The arcuate profile 24 extends part way along the height ofthe cavity 6. As the laterally resilient portion 12 extends towards theopen mouth of the cavity 6, the arcuate profile 24, which can be thoughtof as a concave profile, transitions into a convex curved profile 72which extends away from the cavity 6. The convex curved profile 72terminates at the open end 8 of the cavity 6, at which point thelaterally resilient portion 12 is coupled to an upper surface 70 of theegg packaging body 4.

Due to the curved profile 18 of the laterally resilient portion 12 in aplane transverse to the longitudinal axis A, and the curved profile 72of the laterally resilient portion 12 in a plane along the longitudinalaxis A, a convex portion 74 is formed which bulges or projects towardsthe longitudinal axis A. The convex portion 74 can be thought of as adomed portion, having its apex nearmost the longitudinal axis A.

The curvature of the convex portion 74 enables this portion to deflectaway from the longitudinal axis A. Accordingly, when an egg isintroduced into the cavity 6, the convex portion 74 deflects away fromthe longitudinal axis A to accommodate the egg. The convex portion 74 isresilient such that, when the egg is removed from the cavity 6, theconvex portion 74 springs back to its original shape. In this way,absorption of lateral forces impacting on the egg is facilitated.

The convex portion 74 is arranged to abut a surface of an egg in thecavity 6. In this way, retention of the egg in the cavity 6 isfacilitated since the convex portions 74 provide a “gripping” actionagainst the surface of the egg.

It is noted that no slits or openings in the cavity side wall 16 and/orthe body upper wall 70 are required to enable deflection of the convexportion 74 or the laterally resilient portion 12 in general.

The convex portion 74 also comprises a reduced thickness in relation tothe remainder of the packaging, as is the case with the laterallyresilient portion 12 in general, which is described in detail above. Forexample, the thickness of the convex portion 74 is in the range of 0.2mm to 1.0 mm, for example in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.7 mm, for examplein the range of 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to0.4 mm, for example in the range of 0.25 to 0.3 mm.

In some embodiments, the convex portion 74 and at least a portion of theremainder of the egg packaging, e.g. the side wall 16, have the samethickness.

1. Egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavity forreceiving an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and thecavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between thebase and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to bevertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises one or morelaterally resilient portions arranged to provide support against lateralmovement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis. 2.Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the or each laterallyresilient portion is arranged to flex, thereby providing support againstlateral movement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinalaxis.
 3. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein the packagingcomprises a plurality of laterally resilient portions, optionallywherein the plurality of laterally resilient portions are substantiallyequally spaced with respect to the longitudinal axis, optionally whereinthe plurality of laterally resilient portions are arranged in one ormore pairs of diametrically opposed laterally resilient portions.
 4. Eggpackaging according to claim 1, wherein the body defines a boundary inrelation to said cavity, coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and whereinthe or each laterally resilient portion projects towards saidlongitudinal axis relative to the boundary, optionally wherein the oreach laterally resilient portion comprises a curved profile in a planetransverse to the longitudinal axis arranged such that an apex of thecurved profile is provided nearmost the longitudinal axis of saidcavity.
 5. Egg packaging according to claim 4, wherein the boundary is acircular boundary and wherein the or each laterally resilient portioncomprises a curved profile, wherein the curved profile is bound by anarc of the circular boundary, optionally wherein the curved profile ofthe or each laterally resilient portion is shaped as an inversion of thearc about its chord.
 6. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein theor each laterally resilient portion is arranged to define an arcuateprofile extending in a direction away from the base of the cavity,wherein an apex of the arcuate profile is located furthermost from thelongitudinal axis, optionally wherein at least one of said laterallyresilient portions extends no further than the apex of the arcuateprofile, optionally wherein at least one of said laterally resilientportion extends beyond the apex of the arcuate profile to projecttowards the longitudinal axis.
 7. Egg packaging according to claim 1,wherein the body comprises a side wall extending between the base andthe open end of the cavity, optionally wherein the or each laterallyresilient portion is provided by a respective portion of the side wall,optionally wherein the or each laterally resilient portion is integralwith the side wall.
 8. Egg packaging according to claim 7, wherein thebody comprises a slit or opening arranged to facilitate flexing of theor each laterally resilient portion, optionally wherein the slit oropening is provided adjacent the open end of the cavity and/or along atleast a portion of a length of the side wall extending between the baseand the open end of the cavity.
 9. Egg packaging according to claim 1,wherein the body comprises one or more longitudinally resilient portionsarranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of an egg insaid cavity relative to said longitudinal axis.
 10. Egg packagingcomprising a body, the body defining a cavity for receiving an egg, thecavity comprising a base and an open end, and the cavity defining alongitudinal axis extending in a direction between the base and the openend, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to be vertical when inuse, and wherein the packaging comprises one or more longitudinallyresilient portions arranged to provide support against longitudinalmovement of an egg in said cavity relative to the longitudinal axis. 11.Egg packaging according to claim 9, wherein the or each longitudinallyresilient portion is configured to flex to provide support againstlongitudinal movement of an egg in said cavity relative to thelongitudinal axis.
 12. Egg packaging according to claim 9, wherein atleast one of the or each longitudinally resilient portion is provided bythe base of said cavity and projects towards said cavity, optionallywherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion is integral withsaid base.
 13. Egg packaging according to claim 12, wherein the or eachlongitudinally resilient portion is substantially dome-shaped, such thatan apex of the dome is nearmost the cavity, optionally wherein the oreach longitudinally resilient portion comprises a central depression atthe apex of the dome-shape, configured to receive a portion of an egg,optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex ofthe dome, optionally wherein a plurality of channels are provided, eachof which being concentric to the apex of the dome.
 14. Egg packagingaccording to claim 13, wherein the or each substantially dome-shapedlongitudinally resilient portion comprises a circular perimeter defininga ring arranged to form a foot on which the egg packaging can rest. 15.Egg packaging according to claim 9, wherein the egg packaging comprisesthe body having said cavity, and a lid coupled to the body, wherein atleast one of the or each longitudinally resilient portions is providedby the lid, optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilientportion is integral with said lid.
 16. Egg packaging according to claim15, wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portion comprises oneor more resilient fingers extending from the lid towards the cavity,when the lid is closed, optionally wherein each longitudinally resilientportion comprises four resilient fingers arranged as two pairs ofdiametrically opposed fingers, optionally wherein each resilient fingercomprises a curved profile such that the resilient finger extends awayfrom the longitudinal axis when the lid is closed.
 17. Egg packagingaccording to claim 15, wherein the or each longitudinally resilientportion is substantially dome-shaped, such that an apex of the dome isnearmost the cavity, optionally wherein the or each longitudinallyresilient portion comprises a central depression at the apex of thedome-shape, configured to receive a portion of an egg in said cavity,optionally wherein the or each longitudinally resilient portioncomprises at least one channel and/or ridge concentric with the apex ofthe dome, optionally wherein a plurality of channels are provided, eachof which being concentric to the apex of the dome.
 18. Egg packagingaccording to claim 15, wherein a first longitudinally resilient portionis provided by the base and a second longitudinally resilient portion isprovided by the lid.
 19. Egg packaging according to claim 1, wherein atleast a portion of the or each laterally resilient portion and/or the oreach longitudinally resilient portion comprises a reduced thickness ascompared to at least a portion of the remainder of the egg packaging.20. Egg packaging comprising a body, the body defining a cavitysupporting an egg, the cavity comprising a base and an open end, and thecavity defining a longitudinal axis extending in a direction between thebase and the open end, wherein the longitudinal axis is intended to bevertical when in use, and wherein the packaging comprises at least oneof: one or more laterally resilient portions arranged to provide supportagainst lateral movement of the egg in said cavity relative to thelongitudinal axis, and one or more longitudinally resilient portionsarranged to provide support against longitudinal movement of the egg insaid cavity relative to the longitudinal axis.